A growing number of children in Kenya are suffering from the effects of malnutrition. Caused by the absence of food or nutrients, the long-term effects of malnutrition include poor growth, problems with organ function and difficulties when learning. With malnutrition, the body becomes unable to defend itself to infection. Infectious organisms are also more likely to enter the body, easily. In fact, the World Health Organization cites malnutrition as the gravest single threat to the world's public health. Malnutrition is, by far, the biggest contributor to child mortality.

The images of Kenyan orphans reveal their receding hairline, dry lips, and discolored skin - all tell-tale signs of malnutrition. This malnourishment also leads them to suffer difficulty concentrating or learning and a higher risk of dangerous diseases.

You can find a list of nutrients and the effects of its deficiency listed below:

Most Kenyan orphans suffer from one of the above deficiencies. They are helpless as they cannot afford medical care. These orphans cannot count on family to support them and due to social stigma attached to diseases, they hardly have friends.

The only means to fight malnutrition among the growing population of orphans in Kenya is to provide them fortifying foods with micronutrients. Estimates reveal that roughly $300m of aid goes to basic nutrition each year, less than $2 for each child below two in the 20 worst affected countries.

If you want to help, you can donate funds to help Kenyan orphans fight malnutrition. Your donation can provide education, clothing, food, spiritual guidance and practical life skills to these children. Donate – to make a difference in these innocent lives today!